June with Richmond Libraries

Digital Drop-ins Tour

If you’d like assistance using your tablet or mobile phone, bring it along to one of our roving drop-in sessions. Our friendly staff will be on hand to give you tips so that you can get the most out of your device.

Uke can do it!

Try something new with this enjoyable and supportive four-week ukulele course for adults. Whether you're a complete beginner or want to refresh your skills, an experienced teacher will guide you through the basics in a relaxed, friendly setting. 
No ukulele? No problem! You can borrow one for free from your library. Experience the fun of making music in a warm, welcoming group!

Smartphone basics

This session is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to improve their digital skills. What we’ll cover:

• Everyday features like making calls and sending messages
• Helpful apps for staying in touch, getting around, and more
• Staying safe online and protecting your privacy

One-to-one help will be available at the end of the session – bring your phone and your questions!

Soil and plant health

Discover the hidden world beneath your feet and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring soil microbiome! Understand how it nurtures biodiversity, boosts plant resilience, and is crucial for developing healthy food systems.

Whether you’re a passionate gardener, or simply curious about soil health and ecological gardening, this engaging talk will provide you with valuable insights into the foundation of a thriving garden.

Summer Reading Challenge: Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors.

From Saturday 5 July 2025, children in the borough can sign up for the free challenge at their local library and receive a Story Garden pack. 

Everyone who reads six library books is rewarded with stickers, a medal and certificate!

An evening with Georgina Moore

Join us for an engaging evening with Georgina Moore, Sunday Times bestselling author and local resident, as she celebrates the release of her latest novel, River of Stars, a love letter to the River Thames. 
Georgina will explore how the vibrant history of Eel Pie Island inspired her book’s setting, share insights from her writing journey, and take part in an interactive Q&A session.

Books will be available to buy on the day supplied by The Kew Bookshop.

Know Your Place heritage festival 2025

Thames wherries in Richmond

Thames watermen in their wherries acted as ferrymen where Richmond Bridge now stands, linking communities along the River Thames from the Middle Ages to the early Nineteenth Century. This illustrated talk will outline the role of wherries in both transport and racing at Richmond’s regattas throughout history. It will also offer an insight into the construction of a new wherry, "Rose in June." 

Richmond and the Thames

Explore the history of Richmond's waterside right where it happened. At this exhibition, hosted by Richmond's boatbuilding craftsmen, you'll uncover the rich, centuries-old connection between Richmond and the Thames. Delve into the diverse history and numerous uses of boats and wherries that have defined life along the riverside through the ages.

This exhibition will be accompanied by a talk on wherries and a family workshop at the Old Town Hall, promising a weekend filled with riverside celebrations.

Travelling down the Thames

Delve into the history of the River Thames at this arts and crafts family workshop.

This drop-in event is suitable for children aged 5-10 years old. Glimpse into the history of our local area while taking part in a colourful, creative session of bridge building and origami boats making next to the riverside!

Indian encampments at Hampton Court 

A forgotten story of sacrifice and contribution. Throughout the early 20th century, up to 1800 colonial troops from India camped at Hampton Court for British coronations and World Peace Day. This Reminiscence Café talk explores their daily lives and impact on British society. Through rare and striking images, experience a unique chapter of history when Hampton Court Palace was central to grand Coronation celebrations.

Summer Garden Party

A fun afternoon, in the beautiful library garden, celebrating the people who moved to the UK to make up the diverse cultures we find in Richmond upon Thames. Enjoy dancing from Ukrainian ensemble Stefania, children’s activities, food, and drinks.

This project asks people who have moved to the UK to create photos of their daily lives and give them to the Local Studies Library & Archive. These photos will be saved for future generations so they can look back and learn about the people of Richmond upon Thames in 2025.

Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more!